Quote from @Angel Peng: Currently in contract to close on my first duplex but the Landlord insurance cost took me by surprise.

The areas you specifically mentioned have seen growth due to those factors (Buckeye - industrial expansion; Surprise - TSMC plant relocated). 

Bonus would be refacing the cabinets if the pricing makes senseI priced out part of the job with HD, windows were somewhat reasonable at $8500 but I was surprised by the cabinet refacing -- Just short of $20k.

I'm frequently surprised at how some people live. 

In the case of a damaged roof, replacement cost insurance would pay for a new roof, regardless of its age.The right combination of coverage and policy type can safeguard your home and investments from costly surprises.

I assume fixed because I want to know what the carrying costs are and don't want any surprises, but I'm open to any and all experience!

I was just surprised that when I asked to change the policy to rental, the first thing he asked was if there was a damage after the hurricane I think a few different things are in play here. 

Baltimore City has a massive vacant housing crisis (no surprise there!).

As a creative professional historically "allergic to math," I never thought I'd consider real estate investing, but life is full of surprises!

If it's not and you've profitably developed land like this before, then by all means DIY.Yes, the MM will make some type of money on the deal, but I wouldn't be surprised if the 5-6 developers only work with MM as they're not interested in teaching a landowner how to develop land.